As you remember these fallen officers, take comfort in recalling that they dedicated their lives to the same principles of honor, duty and courage that brought you to the badge. Such a life is truly rich. Take strength in knowing that when an officer falls, our resolve to serve those in need is not diminished. Our dedication to protecting those in danger is not weakened. Our commitment to remembering those with whom we shared the badge does not fade.

Godspeed, brothers and sisters. You fought the good fight. Now rest in peace…

'Hearts heavy' with passing of La. deputy

Deputy Randall L. Benoit, 41, was driving his department-issued vehicle on duty when a Ford Focus driven by Charles Harrell, 28, struck the cruiser, causing a third vehicle to rear-end the patrol car moments later, according to KPLC TV. The third vehicle kept traveling and struck a pickup in the other lane, sources said.

According to reports, Benoit was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. He succumbed to his injuries at an area hospital where he was transported for treatment.

Police and the community mourn the passing of the police veteran who served in various divisions — Corrections, Patrol, Detectives, Warrants, and Safe School — during his 18 years with the Sheriff's Office, the Sulphur Daily News reported. He was working in the Civil Division at the time of the crash.

“Our hearts are heavy this morning with the passing of Randy,” Sheriff Tony Mancuso said. “He was a great asset to our department and will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this most difficult time.”

Harrell was seriously injured and will be cited for driving left of center and driving without a seatbelt. The two other drivers sustained minor injuries.

The crash is under investigation.

Has an officer fallen in your department or local area?Submit news articles and information on the incident to the PoliceOne site.

You must enable JavaScript in your browser to view and post comments.

PoliceOne comments can only be accessed by verified law enforcement professionals.
Please sign in or register to view or write your own comments below.

C.O.P.S.

TASER Foundation

The TASER Foundation’s mission is to honor the service and sacrifice of local and federal law enforcement officers lost in the line of duty by providing financial and edcuational support to their families.